Violence committed within a relationship.  Usually between spouses or significant others.  Statistically this crime is committed by the husband or boyfriend in a relationship to the wife or girlfriend.  The statistics state that 25% of all women and 7.6 % of men will experience domestic violence committed against them in their lives.  Date rape, physical assault, verbal assault or marital rape are all components of Domestic Violence.  Each component can increase the severity of the charges against the accused.   If you are arrested for Domestic Violence, make sure to not admit culpability but to use your rights to not speak until you have acquired the services of a private attorney. 

Penalties for this crime vary from state to state.  It can also be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the severity of the crime.  Someone charged with Domestic Violence can also be charged per incident, increasing potential penalties.  Penalties can include anything from anger management training and being told to stay away from the victim up to and including time in a state or federal penitentiary.   An attorney can help you navigate the legal hurdles that you will need to overcome if charged with this crime.